With this vessel and the ram Webb, which they had had for some time in the Red River, and two other steamers, they followed the Indianola.

The latter was encumbered with barges of coal in tow, and consequently could make but little speed against the rapid current of the Mississippi.

The Confederate fleet overtook her just above Grand Gulf, and attacked her after dark on the 24th of February.

The Indianola was superior to all the others in armament, and probably would have destroyed them or driven them away, but for her encumbrance.

As it was she fought them for an hour and a half, but, in the dark, was struck seven or eight times by the ram and other vessels, and was finally disabled and reduced to a sinking condition.